An accused serial killer was desperate to leave town in the weeks leading up to the murders, according to social media messages uncovered in newly-released documents.

8 On Your Side uncovered the messages in documents released Friday in the Seminole Heights serial killer case.

The messages provide some more insight into Howell “Trai” Donaldson’s state of mind in the weeks leading up to and during the four killings. 

A little more than a week before the first two murders, Donaldson messaged a friend from his Instagram account “trigga_traiii.”

8 On Your Side is not identifying the woman because she has not been implicated in the crimes. 

The following exchange is from October 1, 2017 — eight days before the first murder.

Donaldson: Hey ____, quick question for you
Friend: Hey what’s up?
Donaldson: Not much, this is very random but can I call you
Donaldson: Nothing like trying hookup or hangout or anything like that
Friend: I just landed in New York so I’m a bit busy right now! What’s going on?
Donaldson: I need your help!
Donaldson: I’m in a bit of a situation
Friend: Let’s hear it lol
Donaldson: So I needed someone to but me a one way ticket for me and I would give you the money
Friend: Why can’t you get it?
Donaldson: I can’t use my card right
Donaldson: Now
Friend: You’re not selling me lol
Donaldson: I’m just in a bad situation, and I need a one day ticket to LAX
Donaldson: It’s difficult to explain over text
Donaldson: But if you can help me please let me know
Friend: Yeah I’ll have to think about it so I’ll let you know
Donaldson: ____ if you can me on this, you’ll truly be a life saver. And I’ll pay you back triple time over
Donaldson: I’m reaching out to you because I know you’re a good person and can help

About a month later on November 5, just over a week before the fourth and final murder, Donaldson sent her the last message, writing “So I’m guessing you didn’t wanna take me up on that offer?”

The documents also show Donaldson also exchanged messages with the Facebook page of pop star and actress Christina Milian, though it appears messages from her page are automated responses.

Three days after the first murder, Donaldson messaged another friend asking about grad school in a friendly and fairly normal exchange.

The documents also show messages including pictures of a popular shoe brand, an inspirational quote from basketball star Kyrie Irving, and a picture of Michael Jordan.

Stay with 8 On Your Side as we continue to uncover more details from this latest release of documents.